Donald Sutherland, age 71, of Dilworth, MN, formerly, Fosston, MN, died Friday, March 21, 2008, at Golden Living Center in Moorhead, MN.
Donald Dean Sutherland was born July 1, 1936, in Glendive, MT, the son of Robert and Arvetta (Zuroff) Sutherland. He was raised in Richey, MT, where he attended school. After graduating from High School, Donald entered the United States Air force. He proudly served his country during the Korean War. Upon his discharge, he returned to Montana and began driving truck for Mayflower Moving Company. On May 13, 1959, Donald was united in marriage to Elwyne "Ellie" Dyer. The couple made their first home in Cody, WY. In their early years, Donald and his family also lived in Broadus, WY and Cheyanne, WY. In 1959, Donald and Ellie moved to Grand Rapids, MN, to be near family. Shortly thereafter, they moved to McIntosh, MN, and he began driving for Al Bower trucking. The family then moved to Fosston, MN, and Donald continued trucking until he began attending Northland Technical College in 1980. After receiving his degree, he worked for Larry's TV in Fosston. In the mid-1980's Donald purchased the TV shop and operated it as Deckaa Electronics, doing both TV and computer repair. After Ellie's death in 2000, he continued to live in Fosston until 2003 when he moved to Erskine, MN. In 2004, Donald relocated to Mahnomen, MN, to be near his children and in 2006 he moved into an apartment in Dilworth, MN. He recently entered the Golden Living Center due to poor health.
Donald enjoyed working with computers and was able to repair about anything. He liked being outdoors, especially camping and fishing. He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh. Donald truly cherished his family and spent as much time as possible with each of his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by one daughter, Amy (Anthony Spaeth) Hvezda of Mahnomen; three sons: Clark (Nora) of Mahnomen, Kenneth of Trail, MN, and Adam (Billie) of Fargo, ND; two grandchildren, Jace and Shayne Sutherland; and one niece, Ginger Sutherland; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one brother, Robert; one sister, Theresa, and one daughter, Lori.
A private graveside service will be held in Glendive, MT.